Updated Mar. 2024: Rewritten with all new recommendations and considerations when buying
If you’re like most people, your mind (and maybe your hand) went straight to your favorite pocketknife. Around here, most of us probably have a favorite EDC pistol, too.
For some reason, flashlights always seem to take a backseat in EDC discussions. That’s a shame because we use them way more often than any other piece of gear except for our phones.
Picking your EDC flashlight deserves just as much thought and diligence as you’d put into picking your next knife or multitool. A bad one will leave you in the dark at the worst possible time, and a good one will have your back no matter what.
This year, we’re taking a look at what’s new in the world of EDC flashlights, along with a money-saving pick that I’ve had in my pocket for a few years.
So, keep reading!
THE QUICK LIST
-
Editor’s Pick
-
Most Versatile
-
Most Compact
-
Best Value
-
Best Budget Light
Table of Contents
Loading…
How We Chose the Best EDC Flashlights
Manufacturing a flashlight is easy. Making it strong enough to handle everything life throws at you day after day is more of a challenge.
For this list, I focused on brands I know and trust. I’m sure there are other great EDC flashlights out there, but these are the ones I’d be comfortable throwing in my pocket, go-bag, or car. I’ve put my hands on every product on this list and even own one.
Best EDC Flashlights
1. Editor’s Pick – Surefire Stiletto Pro II
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Rechargeable via a faster USB-C port
- Reversible pocket clip
- Durable aluminum housing
Cons
- Pricey
Specs
The Surefire Stiletto (either the base model or the Pro version) has been on the top of so many flashlight-buying guides that I figured its reign was near its end, especially given how many great new flashlights I saw at SHOT Show. And then Surefire dropped this second-generation Siletto Pro II on us.
The previous Stiletto Pro is nearly perfect. It’s reliable, powerful, slim, made in the U.S., and has great battery life. The only complaints I’ve heard stem from its slow-charging micro-USB port.
Surefire replaced the micro-USB this year with a USB-C port that significantly reduces charging times.
Surefire also added a second LED. The result is 1,500 lumens on the highest setting (up from 1,000) and a massive jump to 35,000 candela (compared to 5,100). That means this new version is brighter and vastly further reaching than the first-generation Stiletto Pro.
The Stiletto Pro II still uses an aluminum housing with an IPX7 waterproof rating. As before, you’ll get a button to cycle through power settings and an on/off tail switch. Both are programmable.
You can set the main button to cycle through power modes low to high or high to low and set the tailswitch to the high setting or a strobe. The new light retains the battery-level indicator LED and reversible pocket clip.
2. Most Versatile – Coast Slayer
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Slim design
- Programmable power switch
- Versatile output
Cons
- Might be too long for some
Specs
Coast updated its EDC lineup for 2024 with the Slayer, a slim pocket light that packs lots of power. Its unconventional shape grabbed my attention at SHOT Show and its features are worth a look.
This base model is the first one that’s available to the public. It offers a 1,150-lumen turbo mode, a 540-lumen spotlight, and three levels of floodlight. There’s a programmable power switch, a charge-level indicator, and a removable pocket clip on the IPX7 waterproof aluminum body. The USB-C charging port can top off the battery in two hours.
Like other manufacturers, Coast is embracing the shift toward flat flashlights for EDC duty. The Slayer is no thicker than my iPhone in its Otterbox case, and it fits great in a front or rear pocket. If you have an EDC bag, it will fit perfectly in a standard elastic loop as long as the 5.5-inch length isn’t an issue.
In the near future, Coast is scheduled to release more versions of the Slayer, including magnets and either a laser pointer or red light.
3. Most Compact – Streamlight Wedge XT
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Compact and easy to carry
- Basic and user-friendly
Cons
- Not as much versatility as other models
Specs
If you want a compact EDC flashlight to keep in your pocket, this is it. The new Streamlight Wedge XT keeps its predecessor’s thin profile but cuts length by over an inch.
This compact EDC light has high and low modes (500 and 50 lumens, respectively). It still charges from a USB-C port like the previous Wedge but ditches the side-mounted toggle power switch in favor of a button on the end.
This isn’t a powerful flashlight, and its features are bare-bones, so it’s not a great option for people who want a tactical flashlight light they can carry daily. Where it excels is being easy to use and comfortable to carry.
The best light is the one you have on you when you need it, so in that regard, the Streamlight Wedge XT makes a compelling case for itself.
4. Best Value – Fenix PD36R Pro
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Long battery life
- Multiple power settings
- Durable
Cons
- Might be too large for some
Specs
Fenix packed a ton of features into the new DP36R Pro for 2024. It’s too big to keep in your front pocket but perfect for the nightstand or an off-body carry bag.
Inside the IP68 waterproof aluminum body is a rechargeable battery that uses a USB-C port and can be swapped out for a fresh one when time is a factor. The PD36R Pro has five power settings ranging from 30 to 2800 lumens and a 2,500-lumen strobe function. The maximum candela rating of 36,000 gives the PD36R Pro a range of 380 meters. On the lowest setting, battery life reaches 42 hours.
Unlike the PD36R, this Pro model has two switches on the tailcap (one for power modes and one for the strobe) and none on the side. You can replace the tailcap with a remote pressure switch to use this as a weapon light.
One thing that makes the PD36R Pro stand out is its battery. It’s rechargeable with a USB-C port, but you can also remove it and hot-swap a fresh one to eliminate downtime. This is the best of both worlds.
5. Best Budget Light – Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Good budget option
- Has the essentials like strobe and high/low settings
Cons
- Lower output than other models
Specs
The Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA has been out for several years, but it’s a great budget option for anyone who wants a solid EDC flashlight that doesn’t cost a bunch of money.
It’s light on features but you get the essentials: high and low settings, plus a strobe function. The biggest advantage is its ability to run off a single CR123, AA lithium, or AA alkaline battery. You’ll get maximum power from a CR123 battery and maximum battery life from an AA lithium battery.
Everything is controlled with a single button on the tailpiece, and the light is barely larger than a tube of ChapStick, so it sits nicely in a front pocket. The two-way pocket clip can be used to mount the ProTac 1L-1AA on a hat brim without removing and reversing it.
Streamlight lists an MSRP of $80 for the ProTac 1L-1AA, but this model has been around long enough that retail prices are about half of that.
What do you think of the ProTac? Rate it below!
What to Look for When Shopping for an EDC Flashlight
Everyone has their own criteria for what makes the best EDC flashlight, but there are some universal considerations to keep in mind.
Features
Every flashlight manufacturer wants to stand out somehow. Adding value in the form of extra features is a great way to do that. Some things to keep an eye out for on EDC flashlights are power modes, color modes, a strobe function, and a magnetic base.
Don’t judge a flashlight by its lumen rating. Sometimes, having something bright is necessary, but I’ve run into just as many situations where I need less power to avoid getting blinded by my own light. Lumens also don’t tell the whole story; think of them as measuring how intense the light is, and candela as measuring how far it reaches.
Fortunately, most EDC flashlights have multiple settings, so you can get everything from a soft glow to a powerful spotlight from one piece of gear.
A fairly common feature of EDC flashlights is a red light. Red wavelengths help preserve your natural low-light vision, and red settings tend to be relatively dim on top of that. This isn’t necessary most of the time, but it can be very helpful for hunters who need to open gates, get into blinds, and check their gear without spooking every animal in eyesight.
There are times when a strobe function can be useful. A disorienting bombardment of 1,000 flashing lumens has value as a non-lethal form of defense, although it’s not always easy on the person using it. Whether or not that’s an important feature to you is a personal choice, but it worked well for Hit-Girl.
Some EDC flashlights come with magnetic bases. It’s a great feature for anyone who works in a garage, workshop, or on the road.
Batteries
Should your EDC flashlight use a rechargeable battery or a disposable one? That’s a hotly debated question.
Rechargeable batteries are convenient because you can top them off every night, just like you charge your phone. A portable power bank or small solar charger can keep them up and running without lugging around extra batteries.
The downside is that when you do need to recharge, it can take a while. There are times when being able to swap out a dead battery for a fresh one in a matter of seconds makes a huge difference. Rechargeable batteries also have a limited lifespan, so eventually, you’ll have to replace yours when it fails to charge.
Most of the time, rechargeable flashlights are fine. If you’re looking for a weapon light or work in any kind of profession where lives are on the line, stick to batteries you can replace on the go.
FAQs
Should I always carry a flashlight?
Yes. Flashlights are pretty handy to have around and you'll be surprised how much you use them.
What is the best everyday carry flashlight?
We like brands like Streamlight, Fenix, and Surefire. Any from one of those will be solid.
What should I look for when buying a flashlight?
Features, price, battery life, and output are all considerations when flashlight shopping.
Final Thoughts
One of the reasons EDC gear gets so much attention is that we all have different needs, leading to endless debate. What do you want from an EDC flashlight, anyway?
If you have money to spend and demand the best, there’s no reason to stray from the latest generation of Surefire’s perennial favorite, the Stiletto.
Not everyone has that much disposable income, though, and some people don’t want to put a $350 flashlight in their pocket every time they leave the house and risk losing it. That’s ok because our other picks from Coast, Streamlight, and Fenix are solid alternatives that won’t break the bank (or your heart if you misplace them).
Which new EDC flashlight are you most excited about? What are you using now? Let us know in the comments. Want to dive into some tactical lights? Check out our recommendations for the Best Tactical Flashlights Under $100.
31 Leave a Reply
Tailcaps?
Yes, I agree. In the dim aftermath of a nuclear impact these will not suffice. Alongside my various knives, kits, ballistic vests, helmets, grenades, rifles (with bayos), bankline, paracord, tarps, trip wires, carabiners, thermal vision nocs, night vision nocs, water purification tablets, fire kit, spare gasoline, a second car-rig (towed behind my 4x4 and on top of the tractor trailer) dictionaries, passports, gold coins, saws, fishing rods and lures, snake bite kit, ferro rod and backup ferros, salt, silk, seashells, disguises and some other secret items that I carry EVERYDAY(EDC) on my person, this list is pathetic. The test should include strapping the flashlight to some C4. If not still running afterwords AND not made in USA it is obviously complete junk and will not suffice in the coming survival situation (for which I study survival videos and practice my bushcraft at least 9 hours each day).
I wouldn’t depend on any of these minus the olight, possibly. Cheap list.
all made in China
I don't know why the Surefire G2X isn't on the list.
The Zebralight is made in the USA. That is why they are hurting financially, from China made inferior products
Most Zebralight models have a manual lockout where you can turn the cap 1/4 turn, to prevent accidental activation.
That is correct. The author should know that, but apparently didn’t research that factor. Even Some of the chins made units have that feature. Simply, moments before you put if back in your pocket, take one second and turn the tail cap a 1/4 turn! Again, author here should know that? Perhaps Pew should research who authors their reviews.
Try not to buy Chicom!
I see you reviewed the Olight S2 but missed the Barton Pro which outputs 2000 lumen max. Both are great lights but I love the new Boton as my EDC. The bet thing is that the size of (either light) is about the same as the 18650 battery that powers it.
There are surefire lights that meet the $100 limit (Or maybe just above, but worth it for American made) that I would love to see reviewed, like the Stiletto and the E1B
I'm surprised you didnt have a coast light in here. Mine is the best light I have ever owned.
Which of the reviewed lights are NOT made in China?
None of them.
Your mom was made in China.
Great post . It is very informational . I think most of the people want to have flashlight but they see that it is not a big issue . But they should learn that how it is important for our daily lifes.
edc flashlight
for around $20 you can buy a streamlite in many configurations , which are very bright and adjustable. They only take a standard battery also.
My choice: Hatori AAA light. "EDC" for me means cheap, practical, and easily replaceable batteries - in addition to performing well. And for me that means a very small but durable light that uses a single AAA battery. Sure, you can find one that puts out more light, but you probably don't want to carry it in your pocket all day and night. This is the best of all the AAA lights, much better quality than the knockoffs on Amazon. Ultra lightweight, uses Cree XPE bulb for over 100 lumen output. And you can get a 4-pack for just $20, which means you actually have one everywhere you want one - one in your pocket, one in your gear bag, one in your car, one in your drawer. Pair it with rechargeables for regular use or Energizer lithiums for occasional use and you're way ahead on cost and convenience while still getting good performance.
I'll never buy another OLIGHT product because they don't respond to warranty inquiries. Apparently their "3-year warranty" is just words on paper. After emailing them and calling to leave polite messages, I received ZERO response from them, leaving me with a useless $60 flashlight. I'd suggest trying one of the other brands listed here, only because of OLIGHT's lack of customer service.
I’d suggest avoiding the China produced lights then. My Surefire lights continue to work great. Buy weapon lights to last a lifetime because if you go cheap that may be exactly how long they last.
Great list, thanks a lot for the reviews.
Could you tell me in the last picture, where you have them lined up, what's the 4th one from left to right ??
It seems to be the one that has the most focused output.
Thanks.
Photon Pro is a great EDC light.
Thanks Wolf, I remember these little guys from way long ago.
Just found your web site, great detail on your comparison,, keep up the good work, look forward to your reviews
Glad we could help out, Roger!
Another good one sir!
Tip for lights that turn on in your pocket. Unscrew the tailcap about 1/8 - 1/4 turn when you put it in your pocket. It sounds like a pain but it only takes a day or two to get used to it. I do it one handed I'm so used to it now.
Jack
Good tip!
Ever consider the FourSevens Mini Mark II, ridiculously small (not much bigger than 1 cr123) bright (1020 lumens) and programmable (6 modes). Less than $50 for the light, battery and charger. I have one on every key chain I own.
Thanks Jonathan, I'll look into that one...liking the dimensions.
When it comes to everydaycarry, what comes to me first is portability. My personal choices are surefire titan, sidekick & e series. They are all small in size and light in weight, very durable no doubt.
Cool, thanks for the recs...might have to check them out when we update the article.